In the area of southern Alberta where I live, we experience Chinooks. A Chinook is a hot wind that blows in winter. Accompanying this there can be a drastic change in temperature which rapidly melts the snow. For me, one of the most striking features of a Chinook is the Chinook arch. This arch is a band of stationary stratus clouds caused by air rippling over the mountains.
The weather report may tell me that the temperature is going to rise significantly, but it is seeing the Chinook arch that causes me to believe it. The sight of this arch confirms for me what the meteorologists have predicted.
Being a transplant to this area, I am still fascinated by this cloud formation. Not only is it striking to look at, it also fills me with wonder. While experiencing one, I got to thinking how much I rely on the signs of nature to confirm the reports I have heard.
Of course, this led me to another conclusion, as well. In the Bible, God has given me all of the instruction needed to live my life. His Word is something that can always be relied upon. My role is to trust and believe. There is no need to ask for signs and wonders to confirm that it is true.
“Unless you people see signs and wonders,” Jesus told him, “you will never believe.” John 4:48 NIV